"What Does Donald Trump’s Use of the National Guard Mean for our Democracy?"
KQED-FM’s "Forum" spoke to Laura Dickinson.
National Security, Cybersecurity, & Foreign Relations Law
The George Washington University Law School’s National Security, Cybersecurity, and Foreign Relations Law program stands at the forefront of legal education in one of the most dynamic and high-stakes fields of law. With unparalleled breadth and depth, the program offers rigorous training on both foundational and emerging issues—from the laws of armed conflict and intelligence oversight to cutting-edge challenges in cybersecurity, surveillance, and technology policy.
Taught by a distinguished faculty of nationally recognized experts and practitioners, students benefit from deep academic insight and real-world experience. The program also boasts a strong track record of alumni success in securing positions across the national security community, including government agencies and private sector roles. Notably, GW Law’s National Security & Cybersecurity LLM program was recently ranked number one in the nation by Cybersecurity Guide, reflecting its leadership and excellence in preparing the next generation of legal professionals to navigate the evolving landscape of national security and technology.
Areas of Study
National Security & U.S. Foreign Relations
This practice area explores the nature and origins of the federal government's foreign relations powers, and U.S. law implementing international law, and the U.S. law of national security and counterterrorism.
National Security & Cybersecurity
This practice area has evolved with the world's increased connectivity through the use of modern technology and cyberspace and the accompanying growing vulnerabilities from physical and cyber threats.
About Us
Learn more about our diverse and experienced National Security, Cybersecurity, and Foreign Relations Law faculty.
Program News
GW Law Associate Dean Lisa Schenck Receives Judge Advocates Association Life Service Award
May 11, 2026
GW Law Associate Dean Lisa Schenck received the Robinson O. Everett Distinguished Life Service Award from the Judge Advocates Association on May 7.
GW Law’s National Security Law Program Hosts Panel on Honors Attorney Careers in the Intelligence Community
May 4, 2026
The National Security, Cybersecurity, and Foreign Relations Law Program and the Military Law Society co-hosted the panel.
National Security Law Program Hosts Fireside Chat in Celebration of Women’s History Month
April 7, 2026
GW Law’s National Security, Cybersecurity, & Foreign Relations Law Program and the NSLA hosted a fireside chat with cybersecurity trailblazers.
National Security, Foreign Relations, & Cybersecurity News
Upcoming Events
The National Security Law Program holds several events throughout the semester. Please check back for new events.
Faculty in the News
"Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals hears Trump v. Newsom over use of National Guard"
FOX13, Seattle quoted Laura Dickinson that a judge's political appointment doesn't necessarily forecast the conclusion of a case.
"Trump v. Newsom over National Guard is extremely unusual case: legal expert"
KTVU-FOX2, San Francisco featured Laura Dickinson explaining who has authority over the National Guard is an extremely unusual case.
"Lawfare Daily: U.S. Troops on the Streets of Los Angeles"
Lawfare featured Laura Dickinson on domestic military deployments.